Developmental Disabilities Endowment Trust Fund

The DD Endowment Trust Fund allows individuals with developmental disabilities, or their families, to set aside funds for future use without affecting their eligibility for government services and benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. Funds can be withdrawn from the trust and used for many services not covered by other benefits, including recreation, therapy, clothing and transportation.

The DD Endowment Trust Fund is an easy and effective way to prepare for the future (and life’s unexpected expenses) without risking financial eligibility for needed benefits and services. The DD Endowment Trust Fund is a supplemental special needs trust program. It was established in 1999 by the Washington State Legislature and opened for enrollments in July of 2002.

BENEFITS OF THE TRUST PROGRAM

Enables families and individuals to open a special needs trust at a minimal cost.

Protects Beneficiaries’ eligibility for public benefits, regardless of their trust value.

Enhances the quality of life for the individual by paying for activities, purchases, and enriching experiences not covered by government services.

Provides a safety net to pay for services and supports in the future, in the event they are reduced (due to budget cuts and policy changes).

Offers incentives in the form of state matching funds on fees.

Provides conservatively invested and safely managed funds by the Washington State Investment Board.

An additional benefit is that the DD Endowment Trust Fund is administered by The Arc Washington State and overseen by a Governor-appointed board that includes family members of individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities.